Bast fibers were used as reinforcement fibers for thousands of years before petrochemical fibers were developed.
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For many products in today’s markets, natural fibers continue to offer key advantages over synthetics and fiberglass.
♦ High strength/weight ratio for composite reinforcement
♦ Different finenesses possible, giving varying aspect ratios
♦ Can be cut to any specified length
♦ Being cellulosic, they do not melt or shrink in FR fabrics.
♦ Exceptional acoustical properties
♦ Excellent insulating properties
♦ Relative price stability
♦ Cost effective – Half the price of synthetics
♦ With a specific gravity of 1.4, they are an excellent substitute for fiberglass (specific gravity of 2.6).
One of our key fibers, Jute, is the second largest vegetable fiber after cotton. Globally, 7 billion pounds of Jute and Kenaf fibers are produced annually, largely from India and Bangladesh. This availability is another reason why natural bast fibers are a viable alternative to petrochemical fibers. |
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